application to the department of education program

Contributions to Student Learning

I have been working in a K-12 environment for many years, and since then have contributed to student learning via curriculum development and leadership. Collaborating with other educators, I have been able to develop and motivate new educational talent. Student achievement measured via test scores and other quantitative outcomes have improved slowly but steadily over the past five years. The unique setting, context, and demographics of the school have enabled me to think creatively about solutions to our problems such as budgetary shortfalls. I have helped other educators overcome external shortcomings to maximize our collective potential as an educational institution.

Leadership Experience

Leadership skills are critical to success in any setting, and especially in education. Educators need to envision the future, imagining new ways they can enhance student learning and improve the educational environment. I have personally served my school and district as a leader by spearheading programs that encourage greater parental involvement, and also programs that have encouraged strategic partnerships with community organizations. For example, I have worked with local museums and community centers to have programs throughout the year helping students to cultivate specific skills outside of the classroom environment. These initiatives have led to additional benefits like guest speakers, and even to opportunities for fundraising.

Communication Skills

When I first started working at my educational institution, I did not take full advantage of the opportunities for public speaking. When one of my mentors encouraged me to speak at a conference, I obliged, nervous as I was. The lecture was a tremendous success and helped build my confidence in my own public speaking and persuasive skills. Since then, I have spearheaded initiatives and advocated on behalf of parents and students from underserved communities. I have also put into writing our vision as a school and have participated in state and federal policy development as well.

Other Applicable Skills

Specific training in education but also in the realm of communications and business has helped me to become a successful Ambassador Fellow. For example, I have served in the project management role, coordinating tasks and personnel. I once coordinated resources and personnel among five different state government departments in order to implement a program designed to help children with special needs. With a servant-leadership model, I have the ability to motivate others by drawing on each person’s unique needs and sense of inner purpose. I believe in intrinsic motivation for all employees, and value collaboration and cooperation in the workplace environment. All of my prior learning experiences have prepared me for this unique role as Ambassador Fellow.

Interest and Expertise

My prior experience can help inform the Department’s work. “Staff members provide vital leadership in classrooms and schools, but too often lack opportunities to contribute their knowledge to the development of education policy,” (United States Department of Education, 2018). I am applying to the program to leverage my past experience too. I hope to participate fully in the Department of Education’s role as primary policy developer, and hope to become more active in education policy throughout my service. I have participated at the state level regarding implementation of federally funded initiatives and programs, especially those that ensure equitable access for all students to achieve their educational goals. However, I have also participated in faculty and staff professional development programs. On one occasion, I helped to work with the school district to implement a technological skills development plan that helped our teachers to embed instructive technologies into the classroom environment. My special skills and background make me especially suited for the role as Ambassador Fellow.